One River School® combines a modern, purpose-driven approach to art education with a community-first mission. The brand’s genuine connection with students and local communities is producing real results, both in student growth and its scalable franchise model. By Brianna Bohn
Investing in Creativity
One River School® combines a modern, purpose-driven approach to art education with a community-first mission. The brand’s genuine connection with students and local communities is producing real results, both in student growth and its scalable franchise model.
Franchises built around a clear mission consistently outperform their peers. Research from Chief Executives for Corporate Purpose, Deloitte and Forbes shows that purpose-driven companies report 31% higher pre-tax profits and benefit from higher employee engagement, retention and innovation. In today’s franchise space, purpose pays off.
Founded in 2012 by Matt Ross, the former CEO of School of Rock, One River School offers contemporary art education for students of all ages, from children to adults. In 2022, Agnes Mauro took the reins as CEO, helping guide the brand’s continued growth.
Its proprietary One River Method is a turnkey system that combines structured learning with creative exploration across 25 class types, including drawing, painting, mixed media, animation and digital art. Franchisees receive step-by-step guidance, including in-person operational training, ongoing marketing support, site selection, build-out assistance and grand-opening support.
With strong unit economics, multiple revenue streams, a recurring subscription revenue model and high-margin group classes, the business generates meaningful revenue with healthy net margins. This is not the lowest-cost art class option, and that’s intentional. One River is positioned as a premium experience. From the materials used in the studios to the design of the spaces and the contemporary art gallery, everything reflects a higher standard.
That sense of intention carries into its community efforts. One River School partners with schools, nonprofits and community organizations, participating in social impact initiatives, including The Kindness Project, where students showcase their art in local malls to raise money and bring awareness to autism. These efforts support the brand’s mission to provide a safe, creative space for all learners while strengthening community connections.
The brand’s impact is brought to life through the story of Katie, a digital art student on the autism spectrum who found comfort and stability at One River School during a challenging period. While she had experienced difficulty in traditional school settings, she flourished at One River School, building strong connections with her teachers and peers.
Looking ahead, the brand is poised for rapid expansion. “We plan to add 40 or more locations in the next three years,” said Michelle Miserez, vice president of franchise development, noting the brand’s model includes both corporate and franchise locations. “Our model also is unique because we will continue to place additional corporate schools across the country to provide support to our schools in new regions.”
For prospective franchisees, the time is now. With increasing demand for creative outlets and community-based experiences, One River School already is showing growth, and no prior art experience is required.
“People own a One River franchise because they believe in creativity, community and the role art plays in people’s lives,” said Mauro. “As a franchisee, you’re championing art and creativity for your community while also building a strong, sustainable business.”
As One River School grows and broadens its impact, it remains committed to making art accessible. For franchisees, that translates into a scalable business opportunity that can deliver strong returns while creating meaningful connections in the communities they serve.
Brianna Bohn